Forty Under 40: Jonathan Ely

A year or two into his first job as an engineer, Jonathan Ely determined that business relationships are every bit as important to develop as technical skills. Now in his ninth year with Crafton Tull, that focus has led to others characterizing him as an engineer who is honest, direct and treats clients with respect.

Ely joined Crafton Tull straight from his University of Arkansas education. He is a Missouri native, but saw Northwest Arkansas as an exciting market for an engineer. He has influenced the design and construction of regional projects such as the 21c Museum Hotel, the Rogers Regional Sports Park and Rogers Aquatic Center, as well as numerous stadiums, sports fields and other commercial developments.

“The most rewarding part of this work is seeing projects come to life and knowing you had a part — then seeing the community use them. There have already been hundreds of projects during the past nine years I’ve seen actually get built, and lots of lessons to learn.”

Ely aims to work his way upward at the firm, potentially leading a department or office, or being an officer in the company.

His personal contributions include coaching youth soccer, participating in Leadership Benton County and volunteering at high school concession stands.